James Johnston | Rural Photographer | Reviewer

In 2014 Dr. James McGrogan went with friends on a winter hiking trip in Vail Colorado. As they hiked the trail James went a little farther ahead of his party when he just seemed to disappear without a trace. A rescue operation was started over an 18 square mile area.  McGrogan was well equipped so the authorities were not too concerned. He had food, water, and warm clothing. But despite a massive search effort no sign of him could be found. 20 days later, McGrogan’s body was found by a group of back country skiers about 4 1/2 miles from the trail. He was found wearing his helmet, no coat, no gloves, and very strangely with no boots. In his backpack his cell phone was discovered and in this area there appeared to be active cellular reception. Jim's snowboard was also found nearby but his boots were never located. On April 7th, 2014, Eagle County Coroner, Kara Bettis, said that James McGrogan died of multiple injuries, including head trauma and to the left side of his chest and a broken femur. His death was ruled an accident.